Potassium Carbonate (all grades)

Description

Potassium Carbonate is a white salt, soluble in water (insoluble in alcohol), which forms a strongly alkaline solution. It can be made as the product of Potassium Hydroxide's absorbent reaction with Carbon Dioxide. It is deliquescent, often appearing as a damp or wet solid.

Potassium carbonate was first identified in 1742 by Antonio Campanella and is the primary component of potash and the more refined pearlash or salts of tartar. Historically pearlash was created by baking potash in a kiln to remove impurities. The fine white powder remaining was the pearlash. The first patent issued by the U.S. Patent Office was awarded to Samuel Hopkins in 1790 for an improved method of making pearlash.
In late 18th century North America, before the development of baking powder, pearlash began to be used as a leavening agent in "quick breads".
Other terms for potassium carbonate include: Carbopnate of Potash, Dipotassium Carbonate, Dipotassium Salt, Pearl Ash, Potash, Salt of Tartar, Salt of Wormwood.


Potassium Carbonate has been used for soap, glass, and china production. It also has uses in the fertiliser industry. In the laboratory, it may be used as a mild drying agent where other drying agents such as Calcium Chloride may be incompatible. However, it is not suitable for acidic compounds.

Norkem supply Potassium Carbonate in a powder and prill form as well as being able to supply Potassium Carbonate Solution in a variety of strengths.

Norkem Limited provides the information contained herein in good faith but makes no representation as to its comprehensiveness or accuracy.
Individuals receiving the information must exercise their independent judgment in determining its appropriateness for a particular purpose